In Seattle, mild, sunny summers bring plenty of opportunities for classic car owners to show off their rides -- and for you to check out the goods. Most classic car shows in Seattle are neighborhood-based, so you can browse the cars and then head to a local restaurant or pub. Some even raise money for charity.

Greenwood Car Show

The Greenwood neighborhood of North Seattle is home to "the biggest single-day car show in Washington State," according to the Greenwood Car Show website. Hundreds of hot rods and classic cars are present for the annual show, which takes place each year in late June. You'll witness 1.5 miles of antique and futuristic cars alike. The event is free to attend, though proceeds from the entry fees for car owners go to various nonprofits and charities. The show also collects food for the Greenwood Food Bank.

West Seattle Car Show

The West Seattle Car Show takes place in the center of the West Seattle neighborhood, across Elliott Bay from downtown Seattle. This show features cars, trucks and motorcycles that date to 1979 or earlier. The show maxes out at 300 vehicles, and there is a fee to participate. The annual car show occurs each year on a Sunday in September and coincides with the West Seattle Farmers Market. You'll also find live music and a raffle benefiting the West Seattle Rotary's Pencil Me In For Kids program.

Kirkland Classic Car Show

Just north of Seattle, in the town of Kirkland, you'll find the Kirkland Classic Car Show. This annual event draws about 400 vehicles and takes place on a Sunday in late July at Marina Park on the banks of Lake Washington. The family-friendly show also includes all-day disc jockey music, raffles and kids games. Trophies are awarded for 21 different classes of car and motorcycle.

Other Area Car Shows

Several other car shows take place throughout spring and summer in the Puget Sound area. The Car Show @ KeyFest, open to cars and trucks, takes place at Gateway Park in Gig Harbor, along the southern edge of Puget Sound. In Monroe, the Dream Builders Car Show takes place at the Evergreen Speedway and raises money for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Snohomish County. The Lacey Spring Fun Fair is a free family festival held each May that includes a car show. And in May, the annual Sequim Irrigation Festival involves arts, crafts, food, entertainment and a classic car show.

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About the Author

Megan Hill is a Seattle-based writer with more than 10 years of experience. She has served as a writer and editor for websites and nonprofit organizations, as well as a reporter for magazines such as "Seattle Met," "Seattle Magazine" and "Edible Seattle."